The lifeline for many American entrepreneurs may soon be cut short. SCORE, the nation’s largest network of volunteer business mentors, faces potential elimination of its federal funding. This development has sent ripples of concern throughout the small business community.
SCORE has helped over 11 million small business owners since its founding in 1964. The organization’s approach combines free mentorship with practical business workshops. But now, its future hangs in the balance as Congress debates budget priorities.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy,” says Bridget Weston, CEO of SCORE. “Without proper guidance, many startups won’t survive their first few years.” Her concern is backed by hard data. Small businesses create nearly two-thirds of new jobs and account for 44% of U.S. economic activity, according to the Small Business Administration.
The proposed cuts come at a critical time. Small businesses are still recovering from pandemic-related challenges. Many face rising costs, labor shortages, and changing consumer habits. SCORE‘s free services help these businesses adapt and thrive despite these hurdles.
SCORE receives about $14 million annually in federal funding. This modest investment pays enormous dividends. Last year alone, SCORE mentors volunteered over 4 million hours, helping create 45,000 new businesses and 74,000 new jobs. The economic impact far exceeds the investment.
“I wouldn’t have survived without my SCORE mentor,” says Maria Rodriguez, owner of Sunrise Bakery in Phoenix. “When supply costs doubled overnight, my mentor helped me rework my pricing strategy without losing customers.” Stories like Maria’s are common among SCORE clients, who report 18% higher revenue growth than the average small business.
The potential funding cut has prompted a nationwide response. Business groups, chambers of commerce, and economic development organizations have joined forces to advocate for SCORE‘s continued funding. They argue that eliminating this resource would disproportionately harm underserved communities.
SCORE has made significant progress in diversifying entrepreneurship. In recent years, 61% of SCORE clients were women, and 46% were minorities. The organization provides crucial support to veteran entrepreneurs as well. These demographics often face greater barriers to business success and benefit tremendously from mentorship.
The debate over SCORE‘s funding reflects broader questions about government’s role in economic development. Supporters see it as a smart investment with proven returns. Critics argue private sector alternatives could fill the gap. However, few private options offer the same scale, accessibility, and cost-free structure as SCORE.
Economic research supports SCORE‘s approach. A study from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York found that businesses receiving mentorship have significantly higher survival rates. This translates to more stable communities, stronger tax bases, and reduced unemployment costs.
“The return on investment for programs like SCORE is exceptional,” explains Dr. Elena Martinez, an economist at Georgetown University. “For every dollar spent, we see approximately $36 returned to the economy through business growth, job creation, and tax revenue.”
Technology has expanded SCORE‘s reach in recent years. The organization pivoted quickly during the pandemic to offer virtual mentoring and online workshops. This digital transformation allowed SCORE to serve more entrepreneurs in rural and underserved areas where in-person mentorship would be difficult.
Local economies stand to lose significantly if SCORE‘s funding disappears. Small businesses tend to hire locally, source locally, and reinvest in their communities. When they succeed, the benefits ripple throughout regional economies. When they fail, communities suffer.
“We’re urging Congress to recognize
